Choosing the right gas shock for your boat hatch is essential for smooth and reliable operation in marine environments. This article reviews the top-rated gas shocks designed for boat hatches, focusing on durability, rust resistance, and lifting capacity. Each product is suited for specific lid weights and hatch sizes, suitable for freshwater and saltwater use. Below is a summary table comparing the best gas struts for boat hatches based on length, force, and material.
| Product | Length (Extended) | Force (lbs) | Material | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vepagoo 15 Inch 67Lb Stainless Steel | 15 in | 67 lbs | 304 Stainless Steel | Boat hatch, RV bed, trap doors |
| TaylorMade 20 Inch 90 lbs Coated Steel | 20 in | 90 lbs | Annealed Steel with corrosion coating | Boat hatch, dock box |
| ARANA 10 Inch 50 lb Stainless Steel Gas Struts | 10 in | 50 lbs | 304 Stainless Steel | Boat hatches, truck toolbox, storage box |
| ARANA 20 Inch 100 lbs Heavy Duty Gas Struts | 20 in | 100 lbs | Steel with brackets | Heavy lids, trap door, camper bed |
| ARANA 20 Inch 80 lb Gas Strut Spring Shocks | 20 in | 80 lbs | Steel | Boat hatch, RV bed, tonneau cover |
Vepagoo 15 Inch 67Lb Stainless Steel Gas Struts for Boat Hatch
The Vepagoo 15 Inch Gas Struts offer a robust solution for boat hatches, featuring high-quality 304 stainless steel construction that resists rust and corrosion in wet and cold environments. Designed for lids weighing between 57 and 73 pounds, these struts exert a force of 67 lbs (300N), making them ideal for moderate-duty marine and outdoor applications such as RV beds or trap doors.
These gas shocks measure approximately 15 inches when extended and fit hatches or lids sized 23 to 30 inches. They come as a pair, but mounting screws are not included. Threaded steel heads and bolts ensure secure installation. Their marine-grade durability makes them suitable replacements for various hatch doors exposed to river or sea water.
TaylorMade 20″ Stainless Steel Gas Shock for Boat Hatch
This TaylorMade 20 Inch Gas Shock is engineered for boat hatches and dock boxes, providing 90 pounds of force to assist with smooth lifting of heavier lids. It features a corrosion-resistant coating over an annealed steel rod, enhancing longevity in freshwater and saltwater environments.
The unit includes 10 mm ball ends suitable for strong pivot points. Its lifting force is measured when fully extended, giving users reliable support when opening hatch lids. The length and design provide versatility across multiple marine applications where durability is paramount.
ARANA 10 inch 50lb Stainless Steel Marine Gas Struts Pair
The ARANA 10 Inch Gas Struts come in a 2-piece set with 50 lbs of force per strut, suited for smaller boat hatches, storage compartments, and toolbox lids. Made from 304 stainless steel, these shocks resist seawater corrosion and tolerate high temperatures.
Their compact 10-inch length supports applications needing shorter stroke gas springs. The struts act as direct replacements for various OEM parts commonly found in marine and truck environments, offering flexibility for different lid sizes and types.
ARANA Gas Struts 20 inch 100 lbs Heavy Duty Hydraulic Shocks
Designed for heavy lids, the ARANA 20 Inch 100 lbs Gas Struts provide strong support for hatch lids weighing between 85 and 110 pounds. This heavy-duty pair is ideal for motorhome beds, trap doors, and robust boat hatches requiring reliable hydraulic lift assistance.
The struts feature adjustable L-shaped brackets and rotatable ball ends for versatile installation. Their 20-inch extended length combined with 100 lbs of force ensures efficient lifting even on large or heavy covers, improving ease of access while maintaining safety.
ARANA 20 inch 80 lb Gas Strut Spring Shocks for Boat Hatch
The ARANA 20 Inch 80 lb Gas Struts strike a balance between lifting power and size, supporting lids up to 80 pounds. Commonly used on boat engine hoods, RV beds, tonneau covers, and large storage compartments, they offer a dependable replacement option with an extended length of nearly 20 inches.
Both struts in the pack provide consistent pressure and use steel construction for durability. They correspond with various OEM part numbers, making these gas shocks easy to integrate into multiple hatch and lid designs.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gas Shock for Your Boat Hatch
Selecting the right gas shock for a boat hatch depends on several crucial factors:
1. Force and Lid Weight Compatibility
Choose gas shocks with a force rating that matches your hatch’s weight. Undersized struts may fail to hold lids securely, while oversized units can cause rapid or unsafe movements.
2. Extended and Compressed Length
Measure the distance from ball center to ball center on your current shock or hatch installation. Confirm that the extended and compressed lengths of the replacement shocks fit your hatch size constraints and desired lid travel.
3. Material and Corrosion Resistance
Marine-grade stainless steel (like 304 stainless) offers excellent corrosion resistance, critical in saltwater and humid environments. Alternatively, steel rods with corrosion-resistant coatings can also be suitable for less harsh environments.
4. Mounting Hardware and Compatibility
Consider whether the shocks come with compatible mounting brackets, ball ends, or screws. Adjustable brackets and rotatable ends can simplify installation and improve fit on customized hatch doors.
5. Application Environment
Confirm the working temperature range and environmental suitability of the gas shocks. Models built for cold, wet, or outdoor marine use will last longer and maintain performance.
6. Quantity and Pair Requirements
Gas shocks typically come in pairs. Ensure you purchase the correct number needed for your hatch for balanced, safe lift and support.
By covering these points, you can ensure a secure, durable, and smooth-operating boat hatch that withstands marine conditions and frequent use.